China launches Gaofen-3 high-resolution radar imaging satellite

It was launched from the Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center in northern Shanxi Province on the back of a Long March 4C rocket. It was 233rd flight mission by a Long March carrier rocket.

The Gaofen-3 satellite was developed by the China Academy of Space Technology (CAST) and Shanghai Academy of Spaceflight Technology (SAST), under guidance of China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CATC).

Key Facts

The Gaofen-3 satellite is China’s first low orbit remote sensing satellite. It has lifespan of eight years.

It will provide high-definition remote sensing data for its users over long periods of time.

It has 12 imaging modes that will provide high-definition observation satellite is capable of taking wide pictures of earth and photographing detailed scenarios of specific areas.

The Gaofen-3 satellite is China’s first SAR imaging satellite. It is accurate to one meter in distance and covers the globe with an all-weather 24-hour observation service.

It will be used for disaster warning, water resource assessments, weather forecasting and the protection of maritime rights.

Background

China had launched its ambitious Gaofen project in 2013. As part of it Gaofen-1 satellite was launched in April 2013 which can cover the globe in just four days.

Gaofen-2 satellite was launched into space in August 2014. It is accurate to 0.8 meters in full color and can collect multispectral images of objects 3.2 meters or longer in length.

Gaofen-4 satellite launched in late 2015. It is China’s first geosynchronous orbit high-definition optical imaging satellite and the world’s most sophisticated satellite.